Alicante Escape: Sun, Sea & Spanish Charm

The ancient Romans who settled here named this sunny seaside location Lucentum ("Place of Light"). Travellers are still drawn to the area because of its pleasant climate and beautiful setting in a large bay. Alicante is an understandably popular summer and winter resort destination on the Costa Blanca, with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean lapping against its sandy shores. Alicante provides an ideal balance of leisure activities and cultural attractions. Sunbathing on the sandy beaches, strolling along the waterfront promenade, and admiring masterpieces of art at renowned museums are all popular pastimes. Alicante has many high-rise hotels near the harbor and the beach that are well-designed to welcome travellers. Lush gardens and elegant palm-fringed boulevards punctuate the city's sprawl. Capital: Alicante International Airport: Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC) Population: 373,000 Currency: The Euro Time: UTC/GMT +1 hour · Driving Side: Right Main Electricity: 230V Official Language: Spanish Religion: Catholicism

The Explanada de Espaa is a beautiful palm-lined pedestrian promenade that runs parallel to the yacht marina and port. The Basilica de Santa Mara, located in the Barrio Santa Cruz historic quarter (Old Town), is Alicante's oldest church and replaced the city's main mosque from the Moorish era. The Playa del Postiguet is located in Alicante's center, beneath the Castillo de Santa Barbara. This charming square, shaded by leafy ficus trees, is a tribute to Alicante's renowned author, Gabriel Miró. The Castillo de Santa Barbara appears to sprout from a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, commanding a commanding position above the town.